Market Rasen cricket: Bierlein brothers keep Seconds top

Market Rasen Second XI hosted Nettleham on Saturday in a top-of-the-table clash in Lincs County League Division Three.

The home side needed to get back to winning ways after a difficult last game and elected to bat first on a dry-looking wicket at Rase Park.

Despite a strong looking batting line-up, Rasen started poorly and were quickly reduced to 16-2. The explosive Chris Higgins came in at number four and scored a quickfire 28 before succumbing to one big shot too many.

The star of Rasen’s innings quickly became opener Neil Davies as the new recruit confidently guided Rasen’s score past the 100 mark and picked up his maiden 50 of the season.

Adding another 22 to his score, Davies will be disappointed to miss out on a century, but as his left the crease at 139-6, Rasen looked to be in good shape.

Karl Beirlein’s cameo ensured the home side finished with a modest 167 from their allotted overs.

Nettleham’s reply started slowly as Entwistle and Quinlan reduced the visitors to 19-2.

A third wicket partnership of 72 guided Nettleham back into the game, but the Bierlein brothers Karl and Gary restored Rasen’s authority.

Both Gary and Karl fooled the unconvincing Nettleham batsmen into losing their last seven wickets for only 40 runs.

Gary was again the pick of Rasen’s bowlers, finishing with six wickets from his 11 overs to take his tally for 2016 to 24 overall.

A great all-round performance and a much-needed 20 points keeps Rasen top of Division Three after six games on 93 points.

On Saturday they travel to Clee Town Laportes looking to extend their lead.